flexible
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.able to bend easily without breaking.
adj.capable of being flexed, turned, or twisted without structural failure.
Simple“The gymnast used a flexible mat to protect her joints during the routine.”
In context“Modern aerospace engineering relies on flexible composite materials that can withstand significant aerodynamic pressure without fracturing.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.able to change or be changed easily to suit new situations.
adj.capable of being adapted or modified to meet varying conditions or requirements.
Simple“My boss is very flexible about which hours I work as long as the job gets done.”
In context“The software architecture was designed to be flexible, allowing developers to integrate third-party modules without rewriting the core codebase.”
Teacher's tipThis is the most common sense in professional and academic contexts, often describing schedules, plans, or mindsets.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
adj.willing to change your mind or do what others want.
adj.prone to yielding to the influence or will of others; not obstinate.
Simple“He has a flexible personality and usually agrees with whatever the group decides.”
In context“The negotiator was criticized for being too flexible on key policy points, leading to a compromise that satisfied neither party.”
Teacher's tipIn this sense, the word can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of firm principles.
- 04 C2 Proficiency
n.an object or material that is able to bend.
n.a substance or structural element characterized by its ability to flex.
Simple“The plumber replaced the rigid pipe with a plastic flexible to allow for movement.”
In context“The specifications required the installation of high-grade flexibles to accommodate the thermal expansion of the industrial heating system.”
UsageUsed primarily in engineering or manufacturing contexts.
Usage appreciation flexible
“It forces your ankle, knee and hip joints to quickly adjust their movements, keeping them engaged and flexible.”
“Samsung has largely defined the foldable phone category, but it’s no longer alone in releasing flexible devices.”
From Middle French flexible, from Latin flexibilis, from flectō (“to bend, curve”). Morphologically flex + -ible.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.